TWO children's private nurseries received glowing reports from a recent OFSTED inspection.

Les Enfants, Darwen and Little Gems, Blackburn, are celebrating after the findings by OFSTED inspectors.

Les Enfants, one of the first nurseries in the North to gain the prestigious 'Kitemark' award, meets required levels in all areas of learning, according to the report.

The findings also revealed the nursery provided an excellent learning environment which proved both interesting and stimulating for the children.

The report said: "The nursery provides an environment rich in language and mathematics and staff work well together. The nursery is very well equipped and relationships with parents are very positive." Mr Kevin Cookson, principal, said: "Les Enfants, parents and staff have worked exceptionally hard to achieve these standards.

"It is tremendously rewarding to all of us to pass in all six educational areas."

Little Gems met an impressive five of the six areas of learning, but failed on the subject of celebrating major festivals.

The report found the youngsters were courteous, altruistic and worked well both in groups and independently.

The findings also praised the youngsters' developing concentration and perseverance skills. Links with parents are strong, it said.

Inspectors said members of staff drew on each others' support and strengths and their assessment records are 'very thorough.'

A spokesman for Little Gems said: "This report lets parents know what a good standard of pre-school education we can offer."

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